The launch of Microsoft’s next-generation gaming console may see some shortages in various markets.
The new console from Microsoft has had plenty of buzz in the previous months. Recently, the company has been discussing topics like game titles as well as the decision to ship two versions of the Xbox 360.
Now, in a gamesindustry.biz report, Microsoft’s corporate VP J Allard has said Microsoft is battling with the issue of how to best distribute the consoles to markets for the official global November 22 launch.
“We decided we’re going to take a little bit of heat on allocations, frankly, in all the territories rather than take a lot of heat in one or two territories,” Mr. Allard said in the report.
He further took a veiled shot at Sony over its PlayStation Portable European launch delay in noting “…we’re not saying Europe comes four months later, we’re saying Europe comes now…we’re going to have some disappointment in terms of what we can provide to retail and ultimately to the consumers this year.”
The discussion of potential shortages at launch, while a forthright move by the company, also helps to build demand. The perception becomes ‘it’s not just a new console with lots of advanced graphics and features, it’s also in limited supply.’ There will be more than a few early buyers who turn around and recoup their purchase by selling it on eBay to a desperate holiday shopper.
David Utter is a staff writer for Murdok covering technology and business. Email him here.
